Wednesday, 30 September 2015

Nigeria has been ranked the rising star of Africa's fast-growing e-commerce sector with the economy topping all other African nations by number of Internet users and mobile phone owners. But many Nigerians still think of internet fraud when online transaction is mentioned.

In 2014 ecommerce in Nigeria recorded over $2 million worth of online transactions per week. According mobilemediainfotech, Nigeria’s e-commerce market is developing rapidly, with an estimated growth rate of 25 percent annually.

A study conducted in 2014 showed that 63 per cent of Nigeria’s 50 million internet users had bought at least one item online. Even with this number e-commerce penetration continues to encounter setbacks.

A random survey conducted on the street of Lagos showed that many Nigerians are still skeptical about buying goods online or making payment for goods purchased online.

Majority of the people said they were not comfortable giving out their financial details online because they cannot vouch for the security of such payment gateways. Others emphasized the problem of slow internet connection and time wasted trying to open web pages to view various products.

Bisi Oladele, a lawyer based in Lagos said she goes online to check for prices of items she intends to buy but prefers to walk into a supermarket or shop to buy the products she desires. She said her decision was based on the fact that she is not comfortable giving out her personal or financial information and the cost of delivering items is high.

Yahoo CEO also talks about Yahoo's mobile ambitions, video and more at IAB Mixx event.

During Monday’s IAB MIXX conference in New York City, Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer told the audience that she thinks it’s a mistake for internet users to install ad blockers.

Mayer stated she personally think it’s a mistake to install ad blockers. She added that the firm has ads that work and make for a better internet experience, adding to the content compared to taking away from it. Mayer stated ad blockers result in the loss of a rich, full experience of the Web.

“I personally think it’s a mistake to install ad blockers,” Mayer said. She says Yahoo has ads that work and make for a better internet experience, adding to the content versus taking away from it. According to Mayer, ad blockers result in the loss of a rich, full experience of the Web. “I want to make sure to keep monetization models vibrant,” said Mayer. “It’s about transparency, choice and control.”

She also touted Yahoo’s capabilities as a mobile company and its focus to “inform, connect and entertain” its users.

“Today, we really want to be the mobile guide,” said Mayer, claiming her company is still in the midst of a renaissance.

Union Bank PLC has announced that it is the main sponsor of the 2015 “Lights, Camera, Africa!” film festival which kicks off on September 30, 2015 at Federal Palace Hotel. This is the second year running the bank will sponsor the festival.

The Lights, Camera, Africa Film Festival was created to stimulate discourse on issues and experiences that are rooted in the African art industry. It is currently in its 5thyearand the major objective is to share a diverse range of African and independent cinema including documentary, feature, animation and giving support to the work of emerging African film makers.

This star attraction at this year’s festival is the documentary film “Faaji Agba” by film-maker Remi Vaughan-Richards. “Faaji Agba” documents the experience of Kunle Tejuosho who sets out to record old time master musicians including Fatai Rolling Dollar, Alaba Pedro, SF Olowookere and Sina AyindeBakarein an effort to showcase and preserve their historical influence and musical styles. The movie tracks their journey over a six year period and is a funny, sobering and highly entertaining preservation of an important part of the Yoruba and Nigerian culture.

According to the Head, Corporate Affairs & Communications, Ms. Ogochukwu Ekezie-Ekaidem, “Union Bank is proud to once again partner with the organisers of the Lights, Camera, Africa film festival for the second year running. Supporting the arts is focus areas for Union Bank especially projects that promote Nigeria and its culture and history. The Lights, Camera, Africa festival is a showcase for Nigerian and African filmmakers who are telling their own stories. This is very important to us as a bank with a strong Nigeria heritage.”

DHL Express, the world’s leading express logistics provider, will launch its Growing Beyond Borders entrepreneurial training program in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) in the coming weeks – an innovative programme specifically designed to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) understand the economic potential of international trade and the subsequent benefits to their businesses.

The company will be launching the program in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia and Mauritius in October 2015, followed shortly by South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana and Uganda. The program will be expanded to a further 16 markets across SSA before the end of the first quarter of 2016.

Hennie Heymans, Managing Director for DHL Express SSA, says that as Sub Saharan Africa continues to emerge as a growth market, so will the continent’s attractiveness for business expansion. He adds that the stable GDP forecasts for the Sub Saharan Africa region (4.6% in 2016 and 5% 2017(1), coupled with a booming e-commerce sector will create significant opportunities for innovative SMEs to service online-savvy customers.

“For example, in South Africa alone, the demand for online retail is growing rapidly, with significant opportunities existing to create cross-border e-commerce partnerships throughout Africa.” A recent report by Ipsos(2), on behalf of PayPal and FNB, revealed that the majority of South African online shoppers could be cross-border shoppers in the coming years. It also showed that up to 46% already shop outside of South Africa. Similarly, the research shows 30% of Nigerian cross-border shoppers (online shoppers who have made purchases online from another country) have purchased goods from South Africa in the past 12 months.

Electronic Giant, Sony is set to launch a major update (3.0 with codename : kenshin) for its Playstation 4 console. This new update will have significant changes including more streaming options and extra online storage. It will also include ability to broadcast or watch games on YouTube Gaming, send 10 second highlight clips to Twitter and “Request to Share Play and Broadcast” a friend’s game or gaming session. Storage on PlayStation Plus has also gone up dramatically from 1GB to 10GB.

PS4 users will have the ability to create communities based around shared interests, like games, genres, and more. Communities include a message board with general discussion, screenshots shared by players, and the ability to join parties / games.

From the PS4 system’s Messages app, you’ll see a new option for Stickers. The 3.00 update will contain stickers themed around Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End, Knack, LittleBigPlanet 3, Resogun, and more. Instead of typing out a message, just send a sticker — like Drake looking at a watch, asking you to wait a minute.”

Ralph Lauren Corporation has named Stefan Larsson, one of the most successful executives in the fashion industry, has its Chief Executive Officer. His appointment will become effective in November, at which time he will also join the Ralph Lauren Corporation board. Larsson will report to Ralph Lauren, who will continue to actively drive the company’s vision and strategy as Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer.

Stefan Larsson most recently served as the Global President of Old Navy, a division of Gap Inc. Under his leadership, Old Navy enjoyed three consecutive years of profitable growth, adding $1 billion in sales. Previously, in 15 years at Swedish retailer Hennes & Mauritz (H&M), Larsson was part of the team that grew sales from $3 billion to $17 billion and expanded the company’s operations from 12 to 44 countries.

Ralph Lauren said: “My job is to think always about the future of our company and how to move it forward. Stefan Larsson is exceptionally talented, and he will bring our company a fresh and exciting global perspective. Stefan and I have a strong personal bond and share a vision for the future of Ralph Lauren. I appreciate Stefan’s unique sensibility, his honesty and his authenticity. We have had tremendous success expanding the Ralph Lauren brands around the world and creating a great management team. Now, all the pieces are in place to position our business for continued growth. We have been a leader in our industry for nearly 50 years, and this is just the beginning.”

Stefan Larsson said: “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work directly and collaboratively with a fashion giant like Ralph Lauren. His creativity and singular vision have made Ralph Lauren one of the world’s most influential global brands, and I share his dreams for the future. I believe the company has tremendous potential to continue expanding in the global marketplace as it broadens its appeal to all consumers.”

Hospitality leader Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced aggressive expansion in Africa and Indian Ocean, increasing its market penetration across the region. Today the company has a strong footprint with 34 operating hotels and a robust pipeline of 20 hotels under development.

With the expansion of its luxury, upper upscale and mid-market brands, Starwood will grow its portfolio by over 50% in the next five years, with more than 50 hotels operating and nine out of its 10 compelling lifestyle brands flying their flag in the region.

“The momentum of growth we are seeing in Africa today is unprecedented. It is a reiteration of the trust our owners have in us, the power of our distinct lifestyle brands and the strength of our global distribution and award-winning loyalty program,” said Michael Wale, President for Starwood, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “Africa is a market with huge potential. With economic growth, a rising middle class and rapid urbanization, the demand for travel and quality lodging will continue to grow and provide us with a significant opportunity to grow our brands and play our part in supporting many emerging markets across the continent.”

Reaffirming its commitment to growth in the region, the company announced seven new deals including W Sharm El Sheikh and The Residences at W Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt), Sheraton Bamako (Mali), The Westin Abuja and Residences (Nigeria), Four Points by Sheraton Abuja and Residences (Nigeria), Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport (Kenya), Aloft Dakar (Senegal), and Element Oyster Bay Dar es Salaam (Tanzania). With the new signings Starwood will further build its position in Nigeria and Egypt, increase its presence in Senegal and enter new markets, which include Mali, Kenya and Tanzania.

Beyonic, a technology company that aims to eliminate the rampant use of cash in emerging markets, has announced a partnership with Mobile Accord that will make Beyonic the largest mobile money aggregator in Africa.

Mobile money allows those in emerging markets to pay or receive money through even the most basic mobile phones. For NGOs and businesses working in emerging markets, mobile payments enable fast, secure money transfers and reduce losses associated with cash payments. However, until now, businesses making mobile payments needed to connect individually to every carrier they wanted to send money through, a time-consuming process for organizations that are operating in multiple countries. Beyonic’s cross-carrier solution allows businesses to manage payments in multiple countries through one intuitive platform.

“For those working in emerging markets, cash payments are riddled with security and logistical issues. Over the past few years, mobile money has become popular both for businesses looking to move away from cash, and for individuals who do not have the means to open traditional bank accounts. Beyonic’s system allows NGOs and businesses to utilize mobile money for expenses with very little set-up, and we are excited to expand this important tool across Africa” said Luke Kyohere, CEO, Beyonic.

Brand South Africa on Wesnesday, welcomed the 2015/16 results of the World Economic Forum’s annual Global Competitiveness Index which sees South Africa rise seven places from 56 to 49 of 140 countries.

Speaking about South Africa’s significantly improved performance in the Global Competitiveness Index, Brand South Africa’s CEO Kingsley Makhubela said, “Building a country’s competitiveness is a collective endevour involving the collaboration of government, business and civil society. Ultimately it involves all South Africans to coalesce around this national objective.”

“The results of the 2015/16 Global Competitiveness Index shows that South Africa has made significant improvements towards ensuring we are a globally competitive destination. The report resonates with our own assessment that we must work towards strengthening, amongst others, the education and health sectors to ensure our sustained competitiveness. The National Development Plan outlines the steps we need to take to achieve this.”

“We thank all South Africans for your contribution to building South Africa’s competitiveness and look forward to further improvements in the next year,” concluded Mr Makhubela.

Clothing retailer H&M has released a new ad campaign for Modern Essentials, a fall line that has been handpicked by global style icon, David Beckham.

The full version of its short fashion film featured David Beckham and superstar comedian Kevin Hart. In the campaign film, Hart plays a method actor preparing to take on the role of Beckham in an upcoming – and unfortunately fictional – film about the former soccer pro.

Directed by Fredrik Bond, founder of Sonny London, for Adam&Eve/DDB, it's a stylish and funny piece of filmmaking as Hart spends time trying to method-research Beckham for a biopic while making a nuisance of himself in his New York apartment.

“I love to do something different with my campaigns with H&M. It gives me the chance to do something completely unexpected, and to break out of my comfort zone. We've done action scenes and big budget productions before, but I've never worked with a talented comedian before with H&M. Kevin was my number one choice, and I can't wait for everyone to see the result,” David Beckham tells H&M Life.

Beckham is one of soccer's all-time biggest icons, known for his fashion sense and celebrity on and off the field.

To commemorate Nigeria’s 55th Independence Anniversary, leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has thrown its full weight behind select star-studded musical concerts that will excite telecoms consumers across the country

The shows scheduled to hold simultaneously in Warri and Kaduna will feature top Nigerian artistes, comedians as well as up-and-coming entertainers.

The Warri concert tagged ‘Warri Again Music & Comedy’ event, a first-rate musical concert in Nigeria will feature leading artistes and comedians. According to the organizers of the show, artistes confirmed for the concert include Basket mouth, Bovi, AY, Buchi, Gordons alongside music stars like Korede Bello Olamide and Iyanya lined up.

Other popular acts such as Dr Sid, K cee, Cynthia Morgan, Harrysong, Lil Kesh will also thrill guests at the event.

Meanwhile, Airtel is also collaborating with a showbiz platform, Talk Crew Network (TCN), to host its customers to the Kaduna Independence Carnival, which is a two-day show billed to hold on October 1st and 2nd at Green Apples Hotel (Carnivores), Sabo, Kaduna.

Some artistes that will perform at the Kaduna show are: Bishop Talk, Pheroshuz, SkinnyBoi, Emmyli, Dan Hausawa, Stayo Stevens, Penny and Nino Brown, while Disc Jockeys (DJs) like Kelly, Abdul, Menthol, White, Uzzy, Bizzy and others will spice up the occasion.

Mauritius, a volcanic island nation in the Indian Ocean is the most competitive economy in Africa. According to the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Report 2015-2016 which assesses the competitiveness landscape of 140 economies. In the world, Mauritius ranks 46.

That makes Mauritius - a nation with less than 2 million population - more competitive than countries like Turkey (51), Vietnam (56) and Mexico (57). As most competivite African economy Mauritius is followed by South Africa, Rwanda, Botswana, Morocco. Striking is the low position of Africa’s giant Nigeria - only 24th in Africa and 124th worldwide.

The decade-long improvement of Mauritius comes to a halt this year with a fall of seven places to 46th. Small improvements in the basic factors for competitiveness—institutions (34th, up one), infrastructure (37th, up five), and higher education (52, up two ) are offset by declines in the efficiency of labor (down by five places to 57th) and the financial market (down by eight places to 34th). Despite this, Mauritius remains sub-Saharan Africa’s most competitive economy, ahead of South Africa in 49th.

It boasts the region’s best infrastructure (37th), most healthy and educated workforce (63rd on health and 52nd in higher education and training), and most efficient goods market (25th). Institutions are a further asset (34th). However, as the country transitions moves up the development ladder, more needs to be done to unlock the areas of competitiveness conducive to a knowledge-driven economy: higher education, especially its quality; the use of ICTs and ability to absorb new technologies (65th), where it has steadily declined over the past decade; the capacity to innovate, about which business leaders are particularly concerned; and an inadequately educated workforce.

South Africa climbs seven places to reach 49th, reversing its four-year downward trend thanks largely to increased uptake of ICTs—especially higher Internet bandwidth—and improvements in innovation (up by five places to 38th), which establish the economy as the region’s most innovative. South Africa also hosts the continent’s most efficient financial market (12th) and benefits from a sound goods market (38th), which is driven by strong domestic competition (28th) and an efficient transport infrastructure (29th).

Tuesday, 29 September 2015

October 1st 2015 marks the 55th Independence Day in Nigeria and Nigerians all around the world proudly celebrate Nigerian heritage on this day. Nigeria gained independence on October 1st 1960. Popular Twitter Hashtags such #October1st and #NigerianIndependence are used by Nigerians to commemorate the day together via social media, sharing facts and fondly remembering key moments in history. Twitter is also used to promote Independence Day events and celebrations that people can attend physically.

Many Nigerians have played a key part in shaping the face of Nigeria and here some well-known Nigerians who have impacted the country in some way and given Nigeria a positive image.

·@MBuhari is the current and 7th president of Nigeria. He has been a prominent politician since the 1940s and has remained a popular face within politics for several generations.

·@Kunleafolayan is a Nigerian actor and film director who directed the well-known Independence Day film that came out last year ‘October 1st’. He is revered media personality, who has boosted the image of Nigeria to the rest of the world, through The Arts.

·@iamdbanj is a Nigerian singer-songwriter who has won many music awards in Nigeria and around the world, including awards for Best African Act at the @mtvema, Artist of the Year and Evolution Award at the @mtvza Music Awards, Best International Act: Africa at the @BETAwards. Through his musical achievements, he has given Nigerians a platform to spread the music globally.

Over the last five years, the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (NOGICDA) has arguably been the single most impactful piece of legislation for the Nigerian oil and gas industry since the Petroleum Act of 1969. The NOGICDA prescribes that indigenous operators be given first consideration in the awarding of contracts and licences, first consideration for training and employment opportunities and preference must be given to domestically manufactured goods.

At a time of shifting global energy markets, oil price at its lowest since February 2009 and the high operating costs, the implementation of Nigerian Content is all the more crucial for wealth creation and capital retention for the sustenance and growth of the Nigerian economy. The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Mr Denzil Amagbe Kentebe, who will be addressing the oil and gas industry in October at the Practical Nigerian Content Forum (PNC) in Yenagoa noted:

“The profile of the Nigerian oil and gas industry has gone through greater transformation than seen in previous decades; there are more indigenous players in the industry than ever before, a wider pool of skilled Nigerian professionals and indigenous asset ownership has increased steadily as has the domiciliation of manufacturing and fabrication.”

And indeed the enactment of the NOGICDA added impetus to the local capacity development initiatives some of the multinationals were already undertaking and galvanised others to work towards compliance. In just one year Shell Producing Companies in Nigeria awarded $2.4bn worth of contracts to indigenous companies and Total launched the TOTAL Supplier’s Financing Scheme worth $7.5bl to be made available through Nigerian banks to bridge the gap between local vendors/suppliers and financial institutions.

Leading pan-African magazine, African Business, has announced winners of the 2015 African Business Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel in New York. From Nigeria, Guaranty Trust Bank bagged Award for Good Corporate Governance, Aliko Dangote, CEO, Dangote Group clinched the Business Leader of the year Award while The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), won Award for Best Corporate Social Responsibility.

The Awards, organised by African Business magazine, also commended leading businesses including Dangote Cement, Guaranty Trust Bank, Abellon Clean Energy, the Nigerian Stock Exchange and the leading provider of mobile-delivered micro-insurance in emerging markets, BIMA.

Segun Agbaje

The objective of the Awards is to highlight a successful and vibrant Africa that is open to local, regional and global business ventures. Now in its seventh year, the African Business Awards has grown into a platform that celebrates excellence in African business by recognizing the individuals and companies that are driving Africa’s rapidly transforming economy and creating new economic opportunities for citizens and communities all over the continent.

Africa’s largest hotel booking website, Jovago.commakes landmark contributions as TEDx Ikeja hosts its first conference on the 3rd of October in Lagos by 10am.

Jovago will sponsor the 2015 edition of TEDx Ikeja as part of its vision to support the development of an idea-driven society by stimulating dialogue through integrated community platforms. The programme will bring together disruptive thinkers across the nation’s socio-economic ecosystem in a bid to actively coach and integrate creative thought processes among Nigeria’s burgeoning youth population.

With the private sector increasing its contributions to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), stakeholders are set on equipping the next generation with skills required to take advantage of the opportunities that arise. TEDx events are non-profit conferences devoted to promoting ideas focused on developing, empowering as well as providing great networking opportunities for participants thus triggering actions within enterprises and communities.

Speakers expected are Mo Abudu, founder of Ebony Life TV; Dr. Joe Odumakin, civil rights activist and recipient of the Woman of Courage award by the US government and many others. Attendance is free but subject to registration.

Investing in real estate has become popular in the last decade and is a common investment vehicle. In Kenya, investing in real estate can give one big gains because there is still high demand especially for residential properties.

Lamudi looks at three basic parts involved in investing in real estate as a beginner.

Buying
The first part of the process involves; finding a property and financing.

Find a property
At this day and age it is very easy to find a house for sale without leaving your desk or the couch. We have so many real estate portals that allow you to compare prices in different areas in order to get a property that is within your budget. Finding a property is the first step to investing in this sector. Some of the important factors to consider when looking for a property include; budget, location and re-sale value. These factors will determine how much profit you will get.

Find Financing
After you have done your homework, look for financial opportunities. One can borrow from the banks, credit unions, mortgage brokers and owner-financing deals. Do your research and know what is available to help you buy a property.

From 1 October 2015, viewers will be spoiled for choice as DStv adds more entertainment channels to DStv packages.

DStv recently added CBeebies, BBC Lifestyle, BBC Brit and an Open Week (28 September – 2 October) of Comedy Central (DStv channel 122) in anticipation of Trevor Noah’s debut on The Daily Show to Compact Plus and Compact bouquets. From 1 October, TCM will also be added to the Compact Plus bouquet to boost subscribers’ entertainment programming.

“We’re delighted to bring our subscribers this refresh that will ensure that they get the best value for their respective bouquets. By ensuring that channels and content are effectively organized and structured to offer the ultimate solution to home television entertainment, each bouquet will continue to offer a channel combination specifically designed for subscriber needs and preferences,” said Caroline Oghuma, Public Relations Manager, DStv, MultiChoice Nigeria.

From 1 October, Compact Plus subscribers will have access to TCM on DStv channel 137 which offers a refreshed look, a new feel and an updated programming slate. By introducing this major change in the channel´s tone, brand image and programming strategy, the TCM experience has initiated a whole new level of quality entertainment. Blockbuster fans are now able to benefit from a host of original titles stemming right from the most prestigious Hollywood studios. Prime time and weekend specials have also been rejuvenated to include explosive action-blocks, chilling thriller specials and frontier-pushing sci-fi events.

Ever wondered…if your life was a movie, what would you like it to be? Would you play a protagonist? Would it be a comedy or a thriller? First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria’s most valuable banking brand, is offering its customers and consumers a unique opportunity to participate in a onetime blockbuster titled “Life is a Movie” featuring our customers. That includes YOU.

The Bank is again living up to its brand promise to put YOU first, through a series of consumer experience. Moments in our lives play out like scenes from a movie which could fit into the genres of romance, adventure, comedy and definitely drama. Whatever this moment is, FirstBank is requesting you to share this moment with us so we can begin to see the world from our customers’ point of view.

With the ‘Life is a Movie Campaign’, the Bank is requesting its customers to share experiences of exciting moments and adventures in their lives. Customers can take on characteristics they want exemplified in a movie and send video recordings of not more than one minute to the Bank. To participate, upload your video on your Facebook page and tag FirstBank’s Facebook page - www.facebook.com/firstbankofnigeria or upload your video on your Instagram Page and tag FirstBank’s Instagram Page - www.instagram.com/firstbanknigeria using the hashtag #LifeisaMovie.

The best entries will be pulled together to make the first ever customer focused television commercial in Nigeria starring YOU. In a statement by the Bank’s spokesperson, Folake Ani-Mumuney, FirstBank has chosen its customers to run its new ‘YOU FIRST’ advertising campaign in movie style. “Having the faces of our customers used as part of our advertising campaign represents not only what we do for our customers, but what our customers do with us”. “With this campaign, we want you, our customers assured that even when life feels like a movie, FirstBank will be part of the script with lifestyle-fit products and services you need to make sure your life follows the script you planned” she stated.

This campaign demonstrates how the Bank puts its customers first. Whether it is getting them to do something new, putting them in line for something special or taking their business to the next level, FirstBank would support its customers, and ensure that they enjoy the different moments of their lives. Having been around for over 120 years, FirstBank has become the trusted and dependable partner throughout the journey of life – experiencing many moments right along with its customers and thus, playing a major role in the movie of their lives.

Seasoned journalist Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Gbemiga Ogunleye will be one of the lead speakers that will lead the 12th edition of the Public Relations Masterclass series, organised by the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN). The programme will take place on Friday, October 2, 2015 at the Conference Hall of ADNA Hotel, GRA Ikeja, Lagos.

Ogunleye, appointed early in the year to head Nigeria’s leading journalism school, is a well-tested journalist whose experience cuts across the print and broadcast media. Former deputy editor-in-chief of Punch newspapers, he was director of News and Current Affairs at Television Continental, Lagos and pioneer Head of Corporate Communications at Arik Air.

Adekunle is a respected public speaker, communication trainer, consultant and entrepreneur as well as Group President of Black House Media, Nigeria’s premier publicist service and entertainment news content providers. He is the head of the digital agency, ID Africa.

Fijabi, a Chartered Marketer (CIM UK), is the Principal Partner at Brooks and Blake, a perception management and consulting firm in Lagos. An alumnus of Leeds University Business School, United Kingdom, he has over a decade experience in marketing communication and was in the team that helped in establishing Nigeria as the fastest growing market for Guinness in the world.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday reiterated his commitment to carry out legal reforms in the state, just as he assured that his administration will continue to lend support to the development, enthronement and quick dispensation of justice.

The Governor, who spoke during a church service to commemorate the beginning of 2015/2016 Legal Year held at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, said the synergy of the Executive and the Judicial arm of government is key to the success of any administration, just as he assured of his continuous support for the legal profession.

“I sincerely congratulate you on the beginning of another legal year. Let me say both the Executive and the Judiciary are partners in progress and I wish to restate my commitment to always support the Judiciary”, he said.

The Governor also expressed appreciation to the church for continuously praying for the success of his administration, urging them not to relent as his administration would not let them down.

Earlier, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev Dr. Adebola Ademowo, who acknowledged the Governor as the first Executive Governor to grace the programme commemorating the beginning of a new legal year since inception.

The 2015 edition of the Nigeria Cup will tee off at the golf section of the IkoyiClub1938 this weekend with the International premium lager beer, Heineken, set to bring excitement to the week-long event.

About 180 golfers are slugging it out in the finals of various events which the chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Lanre Kalejaiye said commenced on Saturday with the theme ‘Seven Shades of Green’ to showcase “ a key value that defines who we are, and celebrate a different shade of our national color – green,” he explained.

Heineken has been part of the annual golf event to celebrate the country’s independence and the excitement that goes with it has been the talking point among participants and fun seekers. The international premium lager beer has made known its intention of continuous partnership with the annual event.

The senior brand manager Heineken, Ngozi Nkwoji last week noted that Nigerian Breweries through the brand has been partnering with Ikoyi Club for several years and is committed to the sponsorship.

“Ikoyi club is a prestigious club and Heineken is the most international premium lager beer in Nigeria and I think it is a perfect match. Our involvement with golf is about value. We are committed to the development of our youth establishment young executives and well-being of Nigerians.

Monday, 28 September 2015

Nigerian-born vlogger, Ikenna Azuike, is returning to screens on Friday, 2 October for more tongue-in-cheek humour in the new series of What’s Up Africa. Beginning its third series, the BBC World News’ Focus On Africa segment will continue to bring reports from across the continent with a fresh perspective.

In this series, Azuike travels across the region to uncover some of Africa’s most compelling stories. He finds out what it really takes to be middle class on the continent and why Zambia may be turning its back on China for a new best friend.

“Filming in Africa is really important to me. Not only is it part of who I am, but meeting the people affected by the topics I cover adds an intensity that I hope will have more impact on the What’s Up Africa audience,” says Azuike. “I've found some important stories from the continent and I'm really looking forward to sharing them with the viewers.”

What’s up Africa, which has been nominated for an AIB - International Media Excellence Award in the category of specialist programme, has already received over 1.5 million views online and is now making its content more appealing to its mostly young digitally-savvy audience. By airing two 90-second episodes a week – on Wednesdays and Fridays - instead of one longer piece, the new series of What’s Up Africa will be more clickable and shareable on social media.

In reports airing on Wednesdays, Azuike hangs out with contestants at an HIV positive beauty pageant in Kampala. He also finds out where the world’s luckiest men live. On Fridays, the show will be dedicated to bringing audiences satirical news round-ups from the week in Africa in 90 Seconds.

Nigeria’s pioneer Marine Transport and Logistics Company, PPP Fluid Mechanics Limited (PPPFM), has denied allegations of illegality in its dealings with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

In a statement released by the PPPFM and signed by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kunle Oyelakun, in response to a publication by an online newspaper, accusing PPPFM of under-hand dealings in the transportation of crude oil to the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries, as well as providing security services, stressed that all the allegations were wrong and backed up by no facts what so ever.

According to Oyelakun, “contrary to the publication, our companies wish to state that the contracts awarded them by NNPC followed due process and complied with the relevant extant provisions of the Public Procurement Act. We state unequivocally that there is nothing illegal in respect of the security contract awarded to OMS and the movement of crude oil by marine vessels contract awarded to PPPFM from inception to date.”

He added that, before the award of these contracts, following a detailed study and analysis by NNPC management, a report indicated that it became uneconomical to transport crude oil from Escravos to Warri refinery through the pipeline in view of Government’s huge expenditure of about $121 million for the maintenance and repairs of the Escravos-Warri broken crude oil pipeline.

Furthermore, Oyelakun stated that the report also indicated an estimated 40 percent loss of crude oil pumped through the Escravos-Warri pipelines due to persistent pipeline vandalisation and oil theft.

“Besides the specific losses stated above, it is public knowledge that the Warri and Kaduna refineries before the engagement of PPPFM had been shut down for about 48 months due to lack of supply of crude oil feedstock to make the refineries functional. For the avoidance of doubt, these facts are also verifiable in the records of NNPC.

The Experential Marketers Association of Nigeria, EXMAN will on Tuesday, September 29th, hold a special dinner to fete and unveil its Board of Trustees and formally introduce the association and its newly inaugurated management team to stakeholders within the marketing communications industry at the upscale Federal Palace Hotel.

President of EXMAN, Rotimi Olaniyan noted that the event will provide an opportunity for the new executives to outline their vision for the future. “The Trustee Night will avail our new executive team to outline the association’s vision and strategic plans over the next two years, in a bid to solicit collaboration and support from other sectoral groups within the marketing communications industry.”

The new executives were elected in July during the association’s second Annual General Meeting in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and they are expected to serve a two years term. The new EXMAN officers are Dr. Olaniyan as President, Wole Olagunsoye, Vice President, Kayode Idowu, Financial Secretary, Abiodun Oshinibosi, Publicity Secretary and Kehinde Salami General Secretary.

Olaniyan is also the MD/CEO of Advantage, a uniquely African consortium of independently owned marketing and communication services companies, agencies and consultancies. In his post-election speech, the newly elected President stressed that his agenda was to grow profitability and market size, saying that his projected 25 percent growth rate is achievable.

“Our first plan is to basically protecting the industry from non-professional and secondly it’s about thought leadership, which is putting in place intuitive that would ensure that we maintain cutting edge as a a practice,” Dr. Olaniyan said.

Samsung Electronics Africa has announced it will be taking part in the fifth Innovation Africa Summit taking place at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, Uganda from 30 September to 2 October 2015. Over 40 African ministers, deputy ministers, and cabinet secretaries from 30 countries are expected to meet and share insights on education, innovation and ICT skills development in Africa.

“We are excited to be participating once again at this event and look forward to engaging with ministers and their delegations about innovations and solutions that respond to African problems. It is critical for Samsung not to have a blanket approach but rather tailor make solutions, and Innovation Africa gives us the opportunity to share insights with the different ministries and officials,” says Corporate Citizenship & Public Affairs Manager, Abey Tau.

At the Summit Samsung will showcase the Solar Powered Internet School (SPIS) solution that has been rolled out throughout the continent in countries including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and Mozambique, to name a few. At the end of the Summit Samsung will surprise one local Ugandan school by donating the SPIS to them, adding Uganda to the growing list of countries benefiting from the SPIS.

All meetings that Samsung has secured with the delegates will take place in the SPIS, built in a 12-metre renovated shipping container that can accommodate up to 24 pupils, and fitted with solar panels that power the equipment.

Furthermore, it is equipped with a 65-inch large-format display screen, a teacher’s laptop, Samsung notebooks, a printer, and fans to cool the container. The classroom’s computer server is loaded with educational content that covers the entire basic education syllabus, allowing facilitators to teach any subject or grade. Energy efficient LED lighting and an IP camera, which is designed to use 3G connectivity, allows for remote classroom monitoring.

Guest Performer/Reggae artist, Patoranking (middle) flanked on the right by Senior Brand Manager Flavours, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Toyin Nnodi; and on the left by Assistant Brand Manager, Flavours, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Olajumoke Oyewole; with Ngom Ukpabi-Eko; (left) and Kimoni Thompson (right) who emerged as the top players in the Basketball Category of the 2015 Sprite Triple Slam event, which took place at the University of Ibadan last weekend.

Guest Performer/Reggae artist, Patoranking (middle) flanked on the right by Senior Brand Manager Flavours, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Toyin Nnodi; and on the left by Assistant Brand Manager, Flavours, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Olajumoke Oyewole; during the 2015 Sprite Triple Slam Event, which took place at the University of Ibadan, over the weekend.

Cross-section of the audience enjoying the performance by Guest Reggae artist, Patoranking during the 2015 Sprite Triple Slam event, which took place at the University of Ibadan

Alhaji Kunle Hamzat, Group Head, HR for the Artee Group, franchisees of the SPAR International brand in Nigeria, said: “SPAR store in MM2 was conceived and designed to cater to the air traffic passengers and employees working in and around the airport terminals and the residential areas adjacent to the airport terminals. The product assortments of over 5,200 items were hand-picked by SPAR to meet the various needs of all consumers. SPAR has also added new items to its product offering like: ready-to-drink Tea, Coffee and Chocolate, as well as Hot Beverages, Pop Corn and Fresh Juice to cater to the people on the move. The wide range of ready-to-eat Nigerian cuisine will also cater to the taste buds of people all across Nigeria.”

SPAR as a hypermarket brand, takes cognizance of the various kinds of shopping missions and adapts its products and services in respect of Choice, Quality, Service and Value to translate the entire shopping experience in to a World Class One.

“SPAR is the only retail chain in Nigeria with Shopper Loyalty Program called SPAR Reward Card. The members of the Reward Card program enjoy Reward Points on every shopping. Shoppers accumulate the Reward points, which can then be redeemed against purchase of any item from SPAR. Reward Cards can be used in any SPAR store across Nigeria to earn and redeem Reward Points. SPAR plans to take the program to a whole new level by introducing Exclusive offers for Reward Card Program members. The shoppers in MMA2 can enroll for the Reward Card program from day one and start enjoying the exclusive benefits”, Alhaji Kamzat added.

In line with its commitment to delivering impactful social investments in host communities, Guinness Nigeria has donated relief materials to ActionAid Nigeria to support the organisation’s ongoing interventions at various camps for Internally Displaced Persons, IDP.

Speaking at the donation, Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, Mr. Sesan Sobowale said the gesture was in furtherance of the company’s resolve to improve the quality of life in Nigerian communities.

“We are delighted that we have an opportunity to contribute in our own small way to ameliorate the conditions of our fellow citizens who are in IDP camps at the moment. We acknowledge that though this gesture may seem like a drop in the ocean, the value of what we are doing is in the hope that it encourages other corporate bodies to contribute to this noble cause, and also create awareness about the fact that there are many Nigerians today who as a result of the unfortunate circumstances are holed up in camps and make-shift shelters,"Sobowale said.

Speaking on the partnership with ActionAid, Sobowale stated, "At Guinness Nigeria, we are always looking to build strategic partnerships that can drive our various interventions. As such, we are happy that we have partnered with ActionAid in making life meaningful for these Nigerians living in IDP camps. ActionAid has very extensive experience in providing emergency response to conflict-affected persons and communities, we are confident that they would help promote the general wellbeing of the IDPs”.

Receiving the relief materials,Director, Finance & Operations, ActionAid Nigeria, Oluwole Elegbede thanked Guinness Nigeria for its thoughtfulness and demonstration of goodwill towards the poor and excluded members of society. He said the gesture would go a long way in improving the living conditions of people in some of the displaced persons camps in the country.

Africa’s leading telecommunications company MTN Group has been named brand of the year by the World Branding Forum (WBF).

Three South African companies were among 118 brands from 30 countries honoured at the prestigious World Branding Awards in London.

National tier winners from South Africa included MTN for mobile telecommunications‚ Sasol for petrol stations and Woolworths for the supermarket category.

Each brand was named “Brand of the Year” in their respective categories.

The event which took place at the State Apartments of Kensington Palace in the British capital‚ was organised by the World Branding Forum (WBF)‚ a global non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing branding standards for the good of the branding community as well as consumers.

It organises and sponsors a range of educational programmes‚ as has joint collaborations with leading universities and museums.

In line with its aim of strengthening capacity among operators of small businesses in the country, Sterling Bank Plc has introduced the Sterling micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME).

The bank also said the institute would help tackle the challenge of funding for MSMEs in Nigeria.

The academy, which will commence with a pilot session in Lagos on September 30, is a result of a partnership with BusinessDay.

The bank said the initiative was also part of value-added offering for its SUPA Business Account.

Executive Director, Sterling Bank, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman

Speaking at an event in Lagos to unveil the academy, Executive Director, Sterling Bank, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman said: “The overall problem we are trying to deal with here is that everybody is talking about SMEs and people still think that if you throw money at SMEs, everything will be fine.

“But we know that is not true. The problem of SMEs is not money. We believe that if you fix all the other problems, people will actually come at you with money. This is because, people have money and they are actually looking to get returns on their money.

“The problem is we cannot give them opportunities that they can see transparently and say this will give me a return or I can trust the processes that are leading to these results. In some instances, people will show you business profits and say they are making 20 per cent profit but they cannot show the process that led to this profitability so that it can be comfortably repeated.

Hennie Heymans, currently Managing Director of DHL Express South Africa, has been appointed as Managing Director of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), effective from 01 October 2015. In his new role, Heymans will oversee 51 countries and territories, over 3,500 employees and 250 facilities, five regional hubs and 14 dedicated DHL aircraft.

Succeeding Charles Brewer, who is now focussed on building a new African e-commerce venture as part of the Mara Group, Heymans’ knowledge of operating in challenging markets, strong leadership skills, as well as his solid network within the African region makes him the natural choice for the role.

A South African national, Heymans joined DHL Express in 2001 as Head of the Direct Business Unit, supervising telesales, agents and retail in Namibia, Swaziland and Lesotho. Soon after this, he was appointed Managing Director for Central Africa, and managed eight markets in the region. He later expanded his portfolio to become the Managing Director for Central Africa and Indian Ocean Islands (CENIO), where he achieved significant business results and growth, before taking up his current role of Managing Director for the South African region in January 2013.

Ken Allen, Global CEO of DHL Express, says that under Heymans’ leadership, the company has seen major development in both the regional and South African businesses. “Hennie has consistently delivered on some tough targets despite the sometimes uneasy economic climate. He has also played an integral role in driving leadership and motivating our people to ensure DHL remains the logistics provider of choice. We are confident that he will continue to grow our market share and now bring his particular brand of respectful leadership and results-driven approach to an even bigger challenge.”

SimbaPay, a leading digital money transfer provider – was on Friday, 25 Sep 2015 announced as the winner of the prestigious DEMO Africa 2015 event which was held in Lagos, Nigeria.

SimbaPay now automatically qualifies for the global DEMO event that will be held in Silicon Valley, USA.

At DEMO Africa 2015, SimbaPay showcased a new service which enables Africans living abroad to seamlessly open bank accounts in Africa using its app.

Nyasinga Onyancha, CEO of SimbaPay commenting about the win said “We are totally excited and dedicate this win to our customers. It’s because of their continued feedback and support that we were able to develop our new in-app bank account opening service.”

Also in Lagos, Nigeria as part of the team that made the Demo Africa winning pitch was Dan Howard, VP of Engineering at SimbaPay. He added that “This win is an awesome reward and inspiration for the endless customer-driven innovations we’re undertaking in the remittances space.”

The E-Circle Foundation recently hosted the third edition of its ‘Esthers in the Market Place’ empowerment training workshop for students and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in collaboration with leading Nigerian communications agency Sesema Public Relations.

The workshop, attended by over 100 women, students and entrepreneurs from SMEs, aimed at providing them with the appropriate know-how to successfully develop their businesses and career paths.

The event which was themed “Breaking the limit”,hosted students at the University of Lagos Akoka, Faculty of Education Glass House; and entrepreneurs at the Newcastle Hotel, Lekki, Lagoson the 18th and 19th of September respectively.

The training was facilitated by a guest speaker, CEO Service desk Ltd; Mrs. Kelechi Mba; a specialist in business development, entrepreneurial trainings and human capital development.She trained the women on strategies for exploring growth opportunities, destructive mindsets of young women and understanding the limitless capabilities of young women, while exposing them to career opportunities relative to global economy.

Also speaking at the empowerment training on the transition of education, the knowledge economy, and the female marketability matrix,, Mrs. Chioma George-Ekehon, CEO E-Circle Foundation said. “Over the past three years, the Esthers in Market Place project has aimed at inspiring personal responsibility and development amongst young women to drive productivity and change.The project was specifically designed to help equip young women with the information and skills necessary to help tackle the diverse challenges evident in their organizations, businesses and society.”

“Our goal has been to effectively attract, develop and empower at least two hundred and fifty thousand young women in five years”. She added.

Hundreds of students thronged the Indoor Sports Hall of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) for the 2015 edition of the Sprite Triple Slam (STS) experiential activations. They gathered to enjoy the unique and exciting fusion of Basketball, Music and Dance skills, the three pillars of the STS activation.

The activation, which kicked off at 2.00pm, saw many of the students taking turns to showcase their skills in one or more of the Basketball, Dance and Music categories.

According to some of the students, it was a relief to take time out from preparing for and writing examinations to relax at an event sparked with such fun and excitement. “We should do this from time to time. I have been very refreshed by Sprite today,” said Rex Joseph, who was the crowd’s favourite in the Dance category.

Another star performer, Nwachukwu Lilibeth, a 100-level Undergraduate student in the Department of Fisheries, who participated in Basketball, expressed her delight saying, “I am so excited! This is actually the first gift I have ever won in my life, and I am happy it came from Sprite.”

Recounting how he was discovered through Sprite Triple Slam a few years ago, Otse John, who now plays professionally for Dodan Warriors Basketball Club said, “I was in 100 level in the University then. After the regional competitions, where I emerged as the winner, I progressed to the finals which held in Lagos. It was while playing in Lagos that I was approached to play in the Nigerian league, and since then, my life has never been the same."

The event reached its climax with a musical performance by Vector da Viper, who got the audience on their feet as he stepped on the stage. Calling for the crowd to join him on stage, the “King Kong” crooner practically had the students screaming and dancing all through his performance.

Over the years, The Economist Events’ Nigeria Summit has charted a country in the process of great transition. The year 2015 has been particularly significant with the country making history in its presidential elections and experiencing its first democratic power transfer.

Nine months on from HE President Buhari taking office, our Nigeria Summit 2016 takes place at the opportune time—bringing key government ministries, industry and business leaders as well as representatives of Nigerian civil society; together with international investors, economists and academics to discuss and debate what the future holds for Nigeria and how the country can take its place among the world’s top emerging markets.

What is the government’s economic policy moving forward? What impact has the drop in oil price had on Nigeria? How are the regulatory and legal environments changing to facilitate growth? What role does foreign investment play and how can Nigeria foster the skills for a prosperous future?

Now in its 11th year, our Nigeria Summit is part of our successful high-growth markets series. It has become one of the leading events in Africa where business, government and ideas people meet to discuss the most pertinent issues.

One of the student-built cars for the Shell Eco-marathon Africa contest in Johannesburg, South Africa later this week.

Students of three Nigerian universities have built cars they will race at the Shell Eco-marathon, Africa (SEMA) in South Africa on October 2 - 4, thanks to the sponsorship of the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) Joint Venture.

The students of University of Lagos, University of Benin and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, collectively known as Team Nigeria, will join 40 teams from four countries to test the energy efficiency of their cars at the Zwartkops Raceway, near Pretoria.

The event will be hosted by the School of Electrical Engineering at the University of Johannesburg. The Shell Eco-marathon competition challenges students in different continents (America, Europe, Asia and Africa) to build and race energy-efficient cars, and rewards those that travel farthest with the least amount of fuel.

“The sponsorship of the students opens an exciting phase in our long-standing support for education in Nigeria,” said Osagie Okunbor, Managing Director SPDC and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria. “In addition to awarding scholarships, building schools and donating science equipment, we’re challenging the leaders of tomorrow to begin to think about, and act on the difficult energy choices facing a rapidly increasing world population.”

In 2014, the SPDC JV provided seed funding for the three universities and sponsored them to the European edition of the competition in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. They also participated in the maiden edition of Shell Eco-Marathon Africa which held in South Africa in 2014, with the University of Benin team winning the Best Designed Car award.

For maintaining top notch product quality for a 39-year uninterrupted stretch and also for being the only malt drink fortified with calcium, Maltina, Nigeria’s leading malt drink from the stable of Nigerian Breweries Plc has been endorsed by the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN). The foremost nutrition association endorsed the brand - the only one in its category - during its 45th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference held in Lagos.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony, Vice-President of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, Dr. BartholomewBrai,praised Maltina for the nutrient-rich product. Dr. Brai who doubles as the Chairman of the Scientific and Technical Committee of the Society, said: “Nigerian Breweries approached us because they were confident of the quality of the products they offer. And then we subjected them to rigorous examinations and laboratory analysis to ascertain the product claims. At the end of the process, we were convinced that what Maltina claims are the same with our results.

“As Chairman of the Scientific and Technical Committee of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, I can say boldly that, aside its numerous nutritional benefits, Maltina is rich in calcium and vitamin A. These are key strong points of the product.”Dr. Brai pointed out that the society is proud to be associated with the Maltina brand due to its richness and vitality for healthy living.

Receiving the endorsement certificateon behalf of the company, Senior Brand Manager, Maltina, Mr. Adewole Adedeji,said the endorsement is very important to the brand because it’s an attestation to the claim of complete richness. He added that the endorsement was a further validation that the product claims are based on verifiable proofs and testament to the highly beneficial constituents of the Maltina brand which is also the only malt drink in Nigeria that is calcium-enriched, a key nutrient needed for the development of healthy bones and teeth, normal blood clotting, and peak performance of the nervous system.

The Lagos Chapter of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has promised to come up with platforms through which War Against Indiscipline (WAI) Brigade also known as Community Support Brigade (CSB) will be financially and materially encouraged for voluntarily serving their fatherland.

This was made known by the Deputy Director Programmes, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Raphael Bowoto, at the 2015 Annual Camping Programme of the WAI Brigade, recently in Lagos.

Bowoto, who represented his boss, the Lagos State Director, NOA, Comrade Ishola Waheed, explained that WAI is not supposed to be placed on salary because it is a voluntary organization, but plans are made to make them benefactors of certain benefits in order to further encourage them.

His words: “WAI is not supposed to be placed on salary because it is a voluntary organization, but that is not to say they cannot be encouraged. As a matter of fact, members of WAI are supposed to be workers, so that they are not tempted to get involved in corrupt practices. Some of them here are very senior civil servants and top officers in private sectors, but that is not to say they don’t need encouragement. We shall involve appropriate platforms to encourage them for their services to their fatherland which they carry out voluntarily with love and patriotism. We will sit down with the leadership of WAI and come up with platforms that will benefit and assist them as they carry out their activities, but I don’t want to speak specifically about these platforms, but rather remain anonymous about them till then. We admit they have challenges, but we are getting there. Rome was not built in a day”.

He reiterated that NOA has been in support of the Brigade by providing them with an office for operation at NOA secretariat, and other financial and material supports. He however encouraged the WAI Brigade to solicit for funds from private organizations after coming up with programmes that will benefit their community vis-à-vis the organization itself, and even private individuals. He urged them further to sustain the self- sacrificing spirit, and help out in mobilizing the youths within the community, given that WAI is a community based organization and grass root governance is key in publicizing government activities.

Riding on the euphoria waves of the completion of the merger between Heritage Banking Company Limited and Enterprise Bank Limited Mr. Akinsola Akinfemiwa OON, the Chairman of Board of the new Heritage Bank Limited, says the bank is set for a seamless operation that will meet the huge expectations of its customers and stakeholders.

Speaking at a parley with journalists in Lagos recently, Akinfemiwa explained that the bank has, to this end, integrated its “process, technology, people, and branch networks” to pave way for an efficient and smooth banking service for its customers all over the country and beyond.

The Chairman said, “We have aligned our operations and processes. We have also rebranded all our branches and trained all the staff on all aspects of our core operational services. We have equally harmonised our products, customers and data at all our Experience Centres.”

Akinfemiwa further stated that Heritage Bank Limited is a service organization in the business of banking, which will operate in a different and special way to satisfy customers and outflank competition. According to him, Heritage Bank is innovative and service-oriented. Again, he affirmed: “It is not like any other bank. We are going to use technology to push our operations.”

The new development, according to him, has fully established Heritage Bank as a national financial institution that operates and renders full commercial banking services across the country. The bank, which hitherto operated as a regional bank, with 15 Experience Centres, has increased its presence to about 200 service outlets boosted by about 165 branches of the defunct Enterprise Bank, spread across the country.

Akinfemiwa maintained that this monumental event marks a new era in banking in Nigeria as the integration of two entities with such similar values, excellent and professional staffing, strong branch network, has led to an entity that is poised for excellence and quality financial services.